Therapists in Virginia

I can only see folks who are in Virginia. As a licensed therapist since 1995, I bring nearly three decades of diverse counseling experience to my practice. My professional journey includes: • 14 years in private practice • 17 years in emergency mental health services • 7 years in college counseling • 4 years at a women’s resource center • 5 years with a family service agency I integrate evidence-based approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices, breath work, and anxiety reduction techniques. My particular expertise lies in addressing codependency issues (dysfunctional patterns of behavior). Supporting clients through their grief journey has become very special to me. I welcome you to email me for more information about my services or to schedule a consultation. I am not accepting clients who are severely depressed or who are in crisis.

Imagine a space where you can be your authentic self, express your deepest concerns without fear, where your thoughts and feelings matter, and where your experiences are acknowledged and respected. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is here to guide, support, and empower you every step of the way on your journey towards healing. I work with children ages 4 & up, adolescents, adults, individuals, groups, couples, and families to explore strategies to navigate challenges, develop coping mechanisms, and build a strong foundation for your mental and emotional well-being.

Life is full of surprises, some pleasant and some not so pleasant. It is in these moments that a little guidance can go along way. Let me be there for you during your challenging moments to help you navigate through them and emerge victoriously. I am a licensed professional counselor with five years of experience including Residency. Though I use an eclectic approach, the interventions I most commonly use are Cognitive behavioral therapy, Dialectical behavior therapy. One size does not fit all so understanding my clients and applying client specific intervention is very important to me. I am also clinical trauma specialist, trained in Internal family systems and EMDR. I am a firm believer of an individual's spirituality playing a significant role in their healing process. I provide Christian counseling to my clients who need it.

You can come back from anything no matter how bad you think the situation is. It is all about your mindset. Reprogramming your mindset is the key to your success. The power of change rest in your desire to want change. I believe that people have the power to change their circumstances within themselves by changing their thought pattern first. Reprogramming your mindset is the key to your success.

Hello I am Aida Sek, LCSW, a bilingual trauma psychotherapist, holding licenses in the states of Florida, Virginia and Colorado. Some of my specialties include trauma, addiction and codependency recovery, PTSD resolution through EMDR, perinatal mental health, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, conflict resolution, multicultural and adjustment issues. Being born in Colombia, made me understand the value and importance of cultural, ethnic, and varied backgrounds, and recognize the multitude of strengths born from these areas. Specific to my practice, each client is met with a sacredness regarding their culture and background, holding the client in unconditional positive regard.

Do you ever feel stressed out or on edge? Do your thoughts seem to spin out of control or lead to fear of future situations? Does that worry prevent you from being present in the moment or keep you from getting restful sleep at night? If you are ready to regain control of your thoughts and live a more present and fulfilled life then you have come to the right place. Hi! I’m Sarah Theimer, a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Virginia. I am also a Christian and the proud wife of a first responder. I provide anxiety and trauma treatment, helping adults breakthrough the cycle of worry and trauma to live a more present and fulfilled life. To help you reach your goals, I use a two-fold approach by teaching you tools to help cope with everyday stressors and manage the intensity of emotions while exploring past experiences which have/are impacting the way you currently feel/behave. As a therapist, I strongly believe in exploring past hurts and experiences to help you better understand what led you to this point and assist in treating the root causes of the anxiety. I aim to keep sessions goal oriented and structured to assist individuals in meeting their goals. I earned my master’s degree from Lynchburg College in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have eight years of experience in the mental health field and have worked in settings to include substance use clinics, inpatient mental health settings, and corrections facilities throughout my time in the mental health field. I have training in and utilize evidence-based approaches to include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR).

I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who attained a Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2020. My passions include social justice, prison reform, substance use, and domestic violence. I have extensive knowledge working with individuals who struggle with addiction, anxiety, stress, depression, adjustment issues, relationship issues, and coping with chronic health conditions.

I have always had the conscious goal of supporting others with being able to overcome their hardships and internal challenges that prevents them from being successful. I am a firm believer that in life we have all experienced some type of challenge that will impact our thoughts and emotions. For some people the challenge is more difficult than others and they will experience greater hardship and internal challenges that will send them on a spiral to the unknown. Being a therapist has always been a desire of mine to support others with understanding their thoughts, feelings, beliefs and behaviors associated with how they feel.

Micah is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 13 years of experience in the human services and mental health field. I received my Master's from Liberty University and having been practicing for the past 6 years. Micah utilizes a collaborative and holistic approach when helping her clients develop and gather tools to better help them along the way on their wellness journey.

I am licensed in Virginia and Massachusetts as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.

Hi, I'm Dr. Miguel. I was born and raised in the Dominican Republic, came of age in New York City, and served in the US Army for several years. I am a clinician and educator, and credentialed as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (Maryland), Licensed Professional Counselor (Virginia), and a National Certified Counselor with the National Board of Certified Counselors (NCC). In addition, I have a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision.

Stuck in a rut in life? Feel like you are going through the motions every day or experiencing anxiety that is controlling your life? I help treat conditions such as depression, panic attacks, anxiety, adjustment disorder, relationship conflict, burnout, poor self-esteem. Throughout counseling you will have a safe, confidential, non-judgmental place to talk where you will learn tools, skills that can help you be in a better place in your life. It takes courage to seek help taking the first step and I want to be there to support you through your journey toward reaching your goals. Throughout counseling I use evidence-based counseling interventions to help promote positive change in your life one step at a time.

Tikita Ficklin is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of Georgia and Virginia and a National Certified Counselor. She utilizes a variety of therapeutic modalities tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, with a particular focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Tikita believes that meaningful change begins with addressing the thoughts that influence our emotions and behaviors. Through CBT, she helps clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop healthier perspectives, and build effective strategies for managing their emotions and behaviors. Tikita earned her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Mercer University. She is passionate about creating a supportive, empowering, and nonjudgmental environment where clients can gain insight, heal, grow, and work toward becoming the best version of themselves.

I am Dr. George Stallings. I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 18 years of experience, proudly serving clients in Maryland and Virginia. I hold a Master’s degree from Towson University, PhD Capella University, and specialize in supporting adults navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions. My goal is to help clients gain clarity, build resilience, and move toward becoming their most authentic and empowered selves.

In today's fast-paced world, our emotions can become a tangled mess, causing us to feel overwhelmed, anxious and helpless. As a mental health therapist, my goal is to help you untangle these knots of emotions that are holding you back and keeping you from living your life to the fullest. I work with you to identify the underlying causes of your distress, helping you develop effective coping strategies and empowering you to reclaim your mental health and happiness. With my guidance and support, together, we can help you to overcome your challenges, heal your emotional wounds, and create a brighter future for yourself.

Hi there, my name is Kristina Mills-Gregory, and I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor in North Carolina, Oregon, Vermont, Virginia, and Florida. I have been providing therapy for over 15 years. I have a Masters in Counseling from Campbell University, and a BA in Psychology and Communication Studies from University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. Prior to becoming a therapist, I started my career as a school counselor in public schools. I have also worked in community mental health, providing a wide range of services. My passion is helping others achieve their goals, and that is why I take a partnership approach to therapy. We will work together to ensure that you are moving forward in your progress. I use a wide variety of techniques that are specific to the individual, based on your needs. These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focus Technique, and Person Centered. I work to ensure that you feel safe and secure, by providing a space free from judgment.

My name is Dr. Butler (Bennie) and Iam an LPC, LAC and PhD in CO and VA serving those that are dealing with the following: depression, anxiet, bi-polar, maital/couples issues, existential issues (life meaning), issues of faith, addictions, disassociative issues and the Like. I have taught psychology, and plan to again, at the college level and I have been the owner of LoveJoy Counseling for 15+ years in CO and I am now expanding into the GROW platform. I am polite and professional, but fairly straight-forward tending to work with those who are at a point where they understand that change takes some level of challange. In short, I have experience with both theory and the applied science associated with psychology and can draw from both to apply in a professional, non-judgemental, yet honest wayGreat. I am 61 years of age, I have lived in various places around the world and have seen the common threads of humanity throughout.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia. I also have achieved status as a Virginia Board Approved Supervisor for LPC and LMFT Residents. I hold a Master in Science degree from North Carolina Agriculture and Technical State University with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I also obtained a certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy during graduate studies. I have served clients in the outpatient and community setting. My initial experience was established by providing Intensive In-Home services for at-risk youth and families in the home setting. I have progressed to conducting client comprehensive assessments and have established an outpatient therapy caseload. As a Clinical Supervisor at a community-based facility, I provide clinical supervision to Qualified Mental Health Professionals, review and maintain compliance, and assist with other leadership tasks.

Welcome to my profile! Thank you for being here. I am Crystal, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am excited that you are ready to embark on a journey self care focused on improving overall health and wellness. I would love to collaborate with you on this incredible and transformative journey! Therapy is about curating a safe space where you can be your authentic self, while crafting intentional goals that assist you in becoming the very best version of yourself. I bring a wealth of professional experience that is both culturally aware, and non judgmental.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience. I pride myself in continued educational enhancement. With my education, experience, and continued growth, I can help my client to see the counseling session as a rewarding experience and an oasis of serenity. I have serviced a wide population and demographic to include clients from age 6 to 97 years old; all with various ethnicities, income status, occupation, and of course "need"

Hi! My name is Auria and I am an LCSW licensed in NC, PA, VA, SC, and NJ. I have been in the field of social work for over 15+ years. I currently work in a hospital and jail setting. Both of these roles require me to provide support to patients and their families (where appropriate). Private practice is one of my passions, and I enjoy learning about people’s journey's! Let’s explore together!

Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who believes in the transformative power of change! As a person-centered therapist, I strive to identify and celebrate the strengths of my clients. I serve from a compassionate, holistic perspective. I am open, curious, nonjudgmental, and highly motivated to see you become the best version of yourself. In your journey toward wellbeing, I will be there to gently and skillfully guide you, encourage and support your goals, teach and model effective coping strategies and techniques to better manage your needs.

I am eclectic with my therapy approach and start with where you are at and what best suits you! I often work with clients dealing with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, or people coping with change. I’m body positive and LGBTQ+ friendly. I hope you will be able to find Ease to Flourish in your day to day experiences and find what can bring you joy.

Welcome! I’m Christien Harden. Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m here to provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can work through life’s challenges at your own pace. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, or identity-related concerns, my goal is to help you find clarity, healing, and balance in a way that feels right for you.

Hi, I am Nephetia and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience providing support to individuals navigating changes and challenges in life. I earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2000 and a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University in 2012. I am a compassionate and affirming therapist who strives to provide a safe and judgement-free space for clients to express themselves and utilize their strengths to achieve their goals. Decreasing negative symptoms and helping each client live healthier fulfilling lives is the ultimate goal. With me you are celebrated and encouraged to be your authentic self. Some of my strongest qualities are building strong therapeutic rapport, creating a safe place to be authentic and being empathetic. My theoretic approach is based on the belief that clients are in charge of their counseling experience so that the process is individualized. I use an integrative therapeutic approach primarily including CBT, Person Centered, Motivational Interviewing and Acceptance an Commitment Therapy. I enjoy being able to help others reach their goals and feel more emotional stability overall. I have experience assisting and supporting clients overcome and cope with depression, anxiety, grief, issues specific to women, low self-esteem and body image.

Are you ready to lay down some of your load? Come to a comfortable, safe space to unpack whatever you've been carrying. I utilize a strengths-based approach in talk therapy with an emphasis on instilling hope. Together we will celebrate the victories, find a way through the barriers, and walk a path of recovery in whatever part of the journey you are on.

Hi, I’m Jasmine Dunnaville, LCSW, and I’m passionate about helping people navigate life’s challenges while building resilience and self-awareness. Whether it’s through therapy, teaching, or advocacy, I strive to create a space where individuals feel heard, valued, and empowered. My approach is warm, direct, and solution-focused—I meet my clients where they are and help them move forward with confidence and clarity.

I am Sarah, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and the owner and director of Serenity Psychotherapy Group. I earned my graduate degree from the Catholic University of America and have spent the past decade providing evidence-based therapy to individuals, couples, and families. My goal is to create a welcoming, supportive environment where you feel comfortable sharing your story at your own pace. During our first session, we will discuss what brings you to therapy, explore your concerns, identify your goals, and begin building a therapeutic relationship based on trust and collaboration. Whether you are seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, or a major life transition, you can expect a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and understood.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about helping folks on their personal journey by meeting people where they are and working together on their individual goals. I have experience working in a variety of community settings with individuals with differing mental health needs. I also have several years of experience working with survivors of brain injury. In therapy, I use strategies from various modalities, including CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, etc. to focus on person-centered growth and healing.

I've been working in mental health for 15 years, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia, Ohio, and Georgia. Most of what I do centers around anxiety, ADHD, autism, trauma, and PTSD — but I work with people dealing with a lot of different things, and I'm not going to tell you your situation doesn't qualify. I see kids, teens, adults, couples, and families, so if you're looking for someone who can work with your family across different ages, that's something I can do. I'm a Certified Trauma Specialist and trained in integrative mental health, which means I bring more tools to the table than just talk therapy. I'm neurodivergence-affirming and work with people across a wide range of identities and communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals and single parents. A lot of my clients have been carrying something for a long time before they finally reach out — that's more common than you'd think, and it's never too late to start.

Hello there I'm Twaina, I approach psychotherapy from a person-centered, supportive role, where I utilize great active listening skills first. From there, I mentor, guide, and help my client by assisting in being a change agent, helping to change thoughts and perceptions that create those judgments in life, whether judging others, situations, or self. I meet the client where they are.

I am a LCSW with 20 years of experience working with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, burnout and other mental health issues. I help identify root issues and work with my clients to better understand their therapeutic goals. I specialize in working with individuals and couples who are experiencing challenges in their lives or relationships. My approach to therapy is compassionate, collaborative and tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. I believe everyone has the capacity for growth and positive change and I am here to support you on your journey towards greater emotional well-being and fulfillment.

I live in the Hampton Roads section of Virginia with my son and our dogs. I enjoy spending time at the beach or in the water somewhere, hiking, reading, and traveling. I have been a licensed clinical social worker for over 20 years and have worked in the field of mental health both, in-patient and out-patient, for over 25 years. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)and Rational Emotive (RET) therapies to guide patients toward a greater understanding of themselves with the goal of emotional equilibrium or “balance.” The large military presence in Hampton Roads has allowed me to work with active-duty personnel and their families. I have successfully treated patients with depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, and trauma histories.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina and Virginia with over 25 years of experience working with Children and Adults. I am also a licensed Chaplain and Ordained Pastor providing spiritual counseling for over 25 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD, PTSD and trauma. I also assisted many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person centered, trauma focused, solution focused therapy and spiritual counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I will meet you where you are and assist you with getting to where you want to be. I look forward to working with you!

Anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, and trauma can leave you feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or stuck. Whether you're navigating stress, divorce, family conflict, or other significant life changes, therapy can help you build the tools and confidence to move forward. I'm Monique, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Anxiety Treatment Professional, and Mindfulness Practitioner. I provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy using a holistic, systemic approach that recognizes the connection between your relationships, experiences, and emotional well-being. Together, we'll identify your strengths, develop practical coping strategies, and work toward meaningful, lasting change. I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, OCD, relationship and family concerns, conflict, crisis, divorce, adjustment issues, and life transitions. I work with adults and college students, creating a safe, collaborative, and supportive environment where you can feel heard and empowered. I also offer clinical consultation regarding Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) and Psychiatric Service Dogs when appropriate as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Telehealth services are available in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, and Virginia.

You keep seeing everyone posting about being their best self, and showing up for themselves. Meanwhile you are just trying to be. Whatever that be, may be for the day. I believe that in order to be your best self, you must be authentic. What does that even look like? You must be true to what you’ve endured, the things that you have overcome…the good, the bad, and even the ugly moments. I help women to embrace them all. Then we take it a step further and look at building you up as a WHOLE. So your best self starts with where you are today and then we create a plan on where you want to be and who you want to become.

Nikole is a Masters Level Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She graduated from Widener University with a Masters Degree in Social Work. She has experience working with the mental health population in an inpatient hospital setting, outpatient therapy setting, and as a school-based counselor. Nikole has worked with a variety of clients and most often those experiencing depression, anxiety, mood instability challenges, chronic illness, and post-traumatic stress symptoms. She primarily utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy

I help high-functioning adults reconnect with themselves and learn to trust their own judgment again. Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, capable adults who have spent years taking care of everyone else while quietly struggling themselves. They often appear successful on the outside but privately feel anxious, emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed, or disconnected from who they used to be. You may be recovering from betrayal, navigating a difficult relationship or divorce, struggling with perfectionism or people-pleasing, healing from trauma, or facing a major life transition. Somewhere along the way, you may have begun second-guessing yourself, losing confidence in your instincts, or wondering why life feels so much harder than it looks from the outside. My approach is warm, practical, and collaborative. Together, we'll make sense of the patterns keeping you stuck, calm your nervous system, reduce shame, strengthen healthy boundaries, and build the confidence to make choices that align with your values instead of fear or self-doubt. Therapy should leave you feeling understood, supported, and equipped with practical tools that make everyday life feel lighter.

My ultimate goal as a therapist is to empower clients to overcome obstacles, cultivate resilience, and live more fulfilling and meaningful lives. I believe in the inherent strength and potential within each person, and I am committed to helping them tap into their inner resources to create positive change. Through our work together, clients can expect to gain insight, develop coping skills, and experience profound personal growth, leading to greater well-being and satisfaction in life.

Hello, My name is Tierra Evans. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work Supervisor and Mental Health Clinician. I have been a licensed Social Worker for nine years and counting. I am a Texas native and have traveled extensively. I received my Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), strengths-based therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and other therapeutic modalities. My passion is to nurture and cultivate positive energy and high vibrations throughout my life journey. Services are provided within a short-term, goal-oriented framework. Treatment typically consists of 6–8 sessions. Progress is formally reviewed around session six, at which point the client and therapist mutually determine whether to conclude services, extend treatment for an additional time-limited phase, or pursue other appropriate options.

Hi, I’m Dr. D. I help high-achieving professionals, executives, healthcare workers, first responders, ethnic minorities and indigenous people who are often successful in their careers but feel stuck or dissatisfied in other areas of life. Many clients struggle with burnout, trauma, anxiety, depression, or recurring patterns that interfere with work, relationships, or daily routines. I know what it feels like to face these challenges—and I bring both personal insight and professional expertise to help you get unstuck and reclaim your life. I hold a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, an MS in Applied Psychology, and an MA in Professional Counseling. My integrative, trauma-informed approach combines Psychodynamic therapy (PD), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). This approach helps clients identify unhelpful patterns, leverage existing strengths, and implement actionable strategies for real-world, lasting change. I take a direct, no-nonsense approach, ideal for clients who are ready to take action immediately. Therapy starts in the very first session—you’ll leave with clarity, insight, and actionable steps toward personal growth, healing, and wholeness.

My Name is Leanora, Please call me "Lea." I have been working with individuals by helping them understand that navigating life's challenges can be overwhelming, and seeking help is often the first step towards healing for 25 years. It has always been my life goal to assist others with becoming the best possible self they are meant to be. That's why I work hard at creating a safe, caring, and compassionate Online space where individuals can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment and at their own pass. My comprehensive range of services includes depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma-informed care, family and couples therapy, and more.

Hello. I'm Joseph. Do you feel so anxious it is hard to leave the house in the morning? Do you feel so depressed and sad that it is hard to get out of bed in the morning? Anxiety and depression are common. You are not alone in feeling this way. I help people who struggle to deal with the stresses of life. Working together, we can identify what causes your depression and anxiety and work to find solutions which will make life easier for you. It is all about finding balance. My experience allows me to help you deal with your stress, relationship issues, anxiety, trauma, or depression. Some people worry about what others will think if they seek out therapy. You are not alone. Many people deal with the same kind of things you deal with. Therapy is a place where many people come to heal and grow. It is a safe place where you can talk about whatever is on your mind and know that everything is confidential. Through compassion, empathy, and evidence-based techniques, we will find solutions for your problems and worries. Look forward to working with you!

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of experience in the Behavioral Health field. My work spans various settings, including corrections, homeless services, hospitals, and substance abuse treatment facilities. I take a direct, solution-focused approach to therapy, helping individuals and couples explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in a structured way that fosters self-awareness, insight, and emotional growth. My goal is to empower clients with practical tools to navigate life’s challenges and create meaningful change.

Hi! My name is Kiara and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia. I have about 8 years of experience working with a variety of populations but I especially like working with youth and young adults. My experience is primarily in community mental health, so I’m all about coordinating care with other professionals to address the whole person. My favorite part about being a therapist is uncovering the light at the end of the tunnel along with my clients, and assuring them that there’s always hope.

For most of my adult life, I have had the privilege of helping individuals and families navigate challenges, make meaningful changes, and move forward in their lives. Along the way, life has happened to me, too. I have experienced loss, grief, life transitions, and family conflict, and I understand that sometimes even the strongest among us need support finding our way through difficult seasons. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I bring both professional experience and a genuine understanding of how complex life can be. I work with adults of all ages who are ready for something to change but may not be quite sure where to begin. My approach is down-to-earth, curious, compassionate, and focused on making our time together meaningful. Being a therapist is more than a profession to me; it is work that feels deeply purposeful. I want you to feel heard, respected, and supported as we work toward what matters most to you. And because finding the right therapist is an important part of the process, if we discover that I am not the best fit for your needs, I will gladly help connect you with another professional who may be.

Hello, my name is Shurla and I am a Board Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the Founder of Restorative Thoughts Counsel. I received a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Alabama and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Oakwood University. With over a decade of experience in social services and more than seven years dedicated to mental health care, I am deeply committed to fostering healing and growth.

I am a licensed clinical social worker and practice in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia. I have been providing therapy for close to 15 years to help my client address mental health symptoms including depression, trauma, life transitions and anxiety. I believe people are inherently capable of managing their circumstances but sometimes require some assistance from a therapist to succeed.

Welcome! Dr. Kristi Hottenstein offers a personalized, holistic approach to therapy and coaching. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Hottenstein has dedicated her career to guiding individuals through life's challenges and transitions. As the practitioner and owner of Compass Counseling & Coaching, PLLC, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her clients, drawing on her extensive education and certifications. Dr. Hottenstein is a National Board Certified Counselor, licensed in Arizona, California, Michigan, New Jersey, Virginia, and Texas. She holds a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Toledo, a master's in counseling from the University of La Verne, and a bachelor's in sociology from Alma College. In addition to her counseling credentials, she is certified in negotiation and mediation and holds a supervisory certification, enabling her to provide supervision to Limited License Professional Counselors. At Compass Counseling & Coaching, Dr. Hottenstein is committed to helping her clients navigate both difficult times and new adventures. "I chose the name Compass Counseling & Coaching for my practice because, at times, everyone needs a compass to help guide them," she explains. "I have a very holistic approach to counseling because no two people are the same. I see each client as an individual requiring their own unique approach." Dr. Hottenstein uses a variety of counseling techniques to encourage self-awareness and the acceptance of personal responsibility. Her belief is that the more we understand ourselves, the better equipped we are to respond to life's challenges. Whether you are seeking support in personal growth, relationship issues, or coping skills, Dr. Hottenstein is here to provide the guidance and support you need on your journey.

If you’re dealing with overwhelming anxiety, ongoing sadness, or feelings of self-doubt, know that you’re not alone. Many people reach moments where moving forward can feel difficult or draining. Therapy offers a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space to explore what may be getting in your way and to gain a deeper understanding of your emotions. Together, we’ll focus on building self-awareness, finding relief, and fostering self-acceptance, while working toward meaningful, lasting change at a pace that feels right for you.